To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are being taken to ensure that women whose treatment for breast cancer is delayed at Maidstone oncology department do not develop other cancers during the wait. (120280)

The provision of breast cancer services at Maidstone hospital is a matter for the local national health service.

In August 2002, National Institute for Clinical Excellence published an update of “Improving Outcomes in Breast Cancer”. One of the key recommendations sets out that breast cancer patients should not have to wait more than four weeks for any form of treatment or supportive intervention. The Improving Outcomes Guidance also recommends that radiotherapy centres should have sufficient staff and capacity to guarantee access to radiotherapy within four weeks of identification of need.